While most people recover from wisdom tooth removal without significant issues, some experience long-term pain, nerve damage, or serious medical complications. In rare cases, even a tooth with a filling may start hurting years later, raising concerns about lingering dental problems.
Pseudoaneurysm: A Rare but Dangerous Post-Extraction Complication
A pseudoaneurysm is a false aneurysm that forms when an artery is damaged, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. This can happen if a wisdom tooth extraction injures the facial artery, leading to a pulsating hematoma. If left untreated, this can result in life-threatening bleeding.
A 25-year-old patient developed a pseudoaneurysm in a branch of the facial artery after having his lower left wisdom tooth removed. Doctors sealed the artery using a microcatheter and special medical glue, preventing further bleeding. The patient later reported only mild numbness on his tongue.
Myoclonus and Nerve Damage
Some studies suggest that damage to peripheral nerves during wisdom tooth removal can lead to myoclonus (involuntary muscle jerks) and spontaneous muscle contractions. While rare, these symptoms may persist long after the procedure.
Brain Damage and Anesthesia Risks
Pain relievers and anesthesia used during dental procedures have been linked to neurological damage in some cases. Issues such as oxygen deprivation, medication errors, or overdose can lead to permanent cognitive problems.
- A 17-year-old high school student in Kansas suffered brain damage due to an anesthesia error during his wisdom tooth surgery, caused by incorrect medical gas lines. His family later won a $3 million lawsuit.
- A young woman in Texas received an excessive dose of sedation, resulting in severe cognitive impairment that affected her ability to play piano and ride horses.
- A 36-year-old woman in Indiana fell into a coma for 10 days after being overdosed on anesthesia during wisdom tooth extraction, leaving her permanently disabled.
Medication Errors: A Case of Overdose and Psychosis
One shocking case involved a man in Wyoming who was prescribed an overdose of atropine before his wisdom tooth removal. Despite warnings from a pharmacist, his dentist proceeded with the extraction without addressing the overdose.
After the surgery, the patient began experiencing severe hallucinations, believing that people were chasing him with weapons. In his delirium, he ran through a freezing stream, broke his glasses, and suffered a serious leg injury. Even years later, he continued to suffer from PTSD and memory problems due to the incident.
Why Does a Tooth with a Filling Hurt Years Later?
Some patients report pain in a previously filled tooth years after treatment, even when the filling seemed successful. Possible causes include:
- Cracked Tooth Syndrome – A small undetected fracture in the tooth can cause sharp pain, especially when chewing.
- Nerve Damage – A deep filling may have irritated the tooth’s nerve, leading to long-term sensitivity or pain.
- Microleakage – Over time, tiny gaps may form between the filling and the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter, leading to infection or decay.
- Referred Pain – Pain from a missing tooth or nerve changes in the jaw might be felt in another area of the mouth, making it seem like an old filled tooth is hurting.
Although wisdom tooth extraction and dental procedures are generally safe, serious complications can occur. From nerve damage and chronic pain to brain injuries and anesthesia-related risks, these cases highlight the importance of proper medical care and follow-up after dental surgery.
If you experience persistent pain, especially in a tooth with a filling years later, it’s crucial to seek professional evaluation. Early intervention can prevent further complications and long-term damage.
